Great news Mike,Although I have only recently joined this group, I really enjoy reading your posts and am very happy to hear of your healthy results. I know two people close by that have had the same surgery and they couldn't be happier with themselves and life in general. Sounds like you are heading in the right direction, especially getting a new fly rod and reel. Can't beat getting out in the fresh air, puffin' on a pipe and landing a nice fish. That's livin'. My best to you and keep us posted on your progress.Andy

That is GREAT news Mike!!! As far as the flyfishing goes, standby because soon you are going to see the "necessity" of a custom made split bamboo rod and of course you have to get a Peerless reel. Don't worry though you can save enough money to buys this things by tying your own flies rather than buying them Oh yeah, got to have more than 1 flyrod, several actually in different weights for different streams, and on and on and on. Flyfishing is a great sport but JUST as addicting as our pipes. Pretty soon we will be reading about your B.A.D. (Bamboo Acquisition Disorder)

Best wishes for your continued improved health and I am pulling for you to reach your goal.

That is so awesome and you are a tremendous insperation! I am very happy for you but I know most of all you are happy and your loved ones are happy, especially concerning your health. I know because my wife stays on me all the time!

Keep up the good work! Sometime before long you need to change that avatar so we can see the after photo! I understand though if you don't want to.

Well, I had my five month follow-up visit today at the doctors office. I have lost a total of 146 pounds so far since January 7th of this year. They must of took a half gallon of blood for tests and everything came back great. Vitamin levels, iron levels, everything. My blood pressure was 120 over 70 and my blood sugar levels were normal. No more pills for either . I have sixty more pounds to reach my personal goal of weighing 200 pounds at 6' 2". The doctor told me that was very obtainable especially since I have been losing so well and keeping my iron and vitamin levels so well. Wish me luck and thanks again for keeping me in your thoughts and prayers.

Wow Mikem, I knew you had some surgery just before I came on board. Had no idea that extensive. One of the gals my wife works with had that procedure done several months ago. Now, other than carbonated beverages she eats anything she desires, just not as much. I can't believe you have done all the box pass action and so forth after that. You obviously have a stronger constitution than the bulldog. Prayers are with you my friend.

Best

Bd

PS, your BP is better than mine, and I am supposedly @ my optimum wait with no hist of cardio

Mike, my sincere congratulations. One of my best friends has gone through a similar process. He went from 400lbs to fitting into size 34 jeans! Amazing. The guy is now going through some surgery to deal with loose skin. It is the accomplishment of a life time. Well done, man!